The Omaha Tribe of Nebraska is taking a historic step forward by legalizing the sale of marijuana on its reservation, making it the first group in the state to do so. On Tuesday, the Omaha Tribal Council unanimously adopted Title 51, establishing a Tribal Cannabis Regulatory Commission to oversee cannabis regulation and opening the door to both medical and recreational cannabis sales—within the boundaries of tribal land.
This groundbreaking move comes amid growing frustration over Nebraska’s slow progress on marijuana reform. While surrounding states have expanded access to medical or recreational cannabis, Nebraska has yet to fully legalize either. The Omaha Tribe’s action creates a legal framework for cannabis sales that bypasses state control entirely.
Tribal Attorney General John Cartier emphasized that the tribe has been working toward legalization for nearly a decade. “There’s a void left intentionally by the Nebraska state in their slow rollout, really dragging their heels with their own Nebraska Cannabis Commission,” Cartier said.
The new ordinance allows adults 21 and over to purchase and use recreational cannabis on tribal land. It also ensures the expungement of past tribal cannabis offenses, providing long-awaited relief for individuals affected by outdated cannabis laws.
Revenue generation played a key role in the tribe’s decision. Recent budget changes and a reconciliation bill have led to anticipated funding cuts for the Omaha Tribe. Cartier sees cannabis as a crucial economic opportunity.
Importantly, Cartier says the state of Nebraska has no jurisdiction over cannabis sales on tribal land. “We can do our own licensing. We can set up our own businesses. And there’s not much that obstructionists can do to stop it,” he added confidently.
If all goes according to plan, cannabis sales could begin as early as the first quarter of 2026.
The move has garnered praise from advocates. Crista Eggers, executive director of Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana, applauded the tribe for its “bold and compassionate” leadership on the issue. Meanwhile, Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers—who has long opposed THC sales—declined to comment.
While Cartier acknowledges the potential legal and political risks, he remains resolute. “Native Americans across this country are no stranger to having a target on their back,” he said. “At the end of the day, I think this is a social justice issue more than economic. And we’re just really proud to lead on that.”
For many Nebraskans, the Omaha Tribe’s action represents a beacon of progress in a state where cannabis reform has long stalled.
